Volkswagen XL1 Prototype Gets 260-MPG, is One Step Closer to Production

[AutoGuide.com]

Ahead of its debut at the Qatar Motor Show, Volkswagen has unveiled a a new version of its 1L (1 Liter) car, bringing the company's goal of delivering a production vehicle that can travel 100 km (62 miles) on a single liter of diesel fuel. The XL1 Prototype, achieves 0.9 l/100 km, or 261-mpg.

Powering the carbon fiber shell is a plug-in diesel hybrid powertrain, using a 2-cylinder TDI motor with 48-hp, mated to a 27-hp electric motor and using a 7-speed dual clutch gearbox. Volkswagen also says that due to the plug-in hybrid setup, the power contained in the lithium-ion battery pack can propel the car 35 km (roughly 22 miles) emissions free.

It may look like a bizarre concept, but Volkswagen clearly indicates this vehicle as a prototype, highlighting the side-by-side seating, rather than the odd tandem setup in the L1 concept from the 2009 Frankfurt Auto Show. It even has a near-production interior.

More: Volkswagen XL1 Prototype Gets 260-MPG, is One Step Closer to Production on AutoGuide.com

[Pushing Fifty]

Great idea...but there must be a catch to buying a car that gets 261 mpg. It'll probably cost $200,000, right?

[marvins_dad]

Volkswagen's 260 MPG Diesel Hybrid Coupe

Ok, now VW - put one in a Beetle!

[kcfoxie]

So the 1L concept went hybrid. Interesting. I'd own one for commuting purposes...if I wasn't planning to move within biking distance of my office.